Cycle of support: Perth to Margaret River ProState Cycle

THE Perth to Margaret River ProState Cycle, which raises funds for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA), now has 100 cyclists taking part, growing from just 10 riders in 2012.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in Australia, with 20,000 new cases diagnosed each year.

Now in its fourth year, the two-day cycling event is held during International Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.

It has raised more than $500,000 for the PCFA. This year, organisers hope to raise a further $150,000.

Event founder Jeremy Watkins came up with the idea after his father-in-law was diagnosed with the terminal illness in 2011.

He died in 2014.

“The majority of the riders have been touched in some way by prostate cancer, which makes participating in this ride mean so much more to them and the camaraderie that is created is amazing,” Mr Watkins said.

“We are now all working hard to ensure that our fundraising efforts match our physical commitments.”

Businessman Kim Ledger, father of late actor Heath Ledger and a prostate cancer survivor, is returning as the patron for the third year.